Released under the name of Joe Deninzon, this album is by the same group who released Electric Blue under the moniker of Stratospheerius. The group of musicians on the album are Deninzon (who quite capably handles multiple duties, the most prominent of which are violin and vocals), Scott Chasolen, Grisha Alexiev, Rufus Philpot, DJ Big Wiz, and guitarist Alex Skolnick (Attention Deficit, Testament). In Adventures in the Stratospheerius, they have produced a very intriguing album that combines some quite disparate musical styles. The group’s music includes elements of fusion, jam rock, and even down-home hoe-down Southern rock. While that combination sounds pretty odd on paper, it really makes for an exciting album and a great listening experience. ~ Gary Hill, All Music Guide

Violinist Joe Deninzon boasts some impressive credentials! He’s performed with soul/pop icon Smokey Robinson, rock/pop diva Sheryl Crow, and others of note. This Russian born, Cleveland Ohio bred artist displays hearty doses of flair and dazzle throughout this somewhat asymmetrical outing. Featuring electric guitar maestro Alex Skolnick and a strong backing band, the violinist launches the proceedings with a snappy, jazz-fusion motif on the opening number, “What’s That Thang?” The musicians also explore balladry and funk-grooves in concert with Skolnick’s crunch chords and a few folksy movements. At times, notions of the Mahavishnu Orchestra emerge. A passable vocalist, Deninzon’s expressiveness provides a rock-crooner style edge to several tracks.

No doubt, Mr. Deninzon possesses monster chops, whereas many of these pieces feature tricky rhythmic maneuvers amid his electrifying violin passages. But, the overly compressed sonic qualities elicit a rather dated or perhaps antiquated sound. Otherwise, Deninzon possesses the compulsory goods to become a major force in the progressive rock and jazz-fusion arenas.